Buffalo Bandits transition player Jon Harasym today announced his retirement from the National Lacrosse League.

"It’s extremely difficult to walk away from the game I love and have enjoyed playing for most of my life," the 33-year old said. "But it’s a lot easier knowing I get to spend more time with my beautiful wife Cara, and our two amazing kids, daughter Hazel (4) and son Harley (1). First and foremost, I want to thank all my teammates and coaches for making it an absolute pleasure to play this game. I also want to thank the Bandits organization for making Buffalo my home for the majority of my career. And I can't forget to thank the amazing fans in Banditland for all the support. Simply put, you are the best."

Harasym spent the better part of five seasons with the Bandits over his career, compiling 48 points (14+34) to go along with 128 penalty minutes and 283 loose balls in that time. After suiting up for Buffalo during the 2005 and 2006 campaigns, he was reacquired prior to the 2010 season and finished his career with the club.

"Jon is the epitome of what being a Buffalo Bandit is all about," said Bandits General Manager Steve Dietrich. "It’s guys like him who teammates appreciate the most. He’s a blue collar, hard working guy who gave everything he had each and every time he came to the rink. You don’t come across guys like Jon Harasym everyday."

Appearing in a total of 135 NLL contests between Buffalo, Philadelphia, Toronto, Chicago, Minnesota, Rochester and Columbus, Harasym tallied 46 goals, 95 assists and 463 loose balls. The Edmonton, Alberta native also added three points (0+3) in four career playoff games, all with the Bandits.